Diploma for the Early Years Educator level 3 qualification

Assessment requirements

In order to achieve the qualification, learners must compile a portfolio of evidence demonstrating how they have met all the learning outcomes and their associated assessment criteria.

Learners will be assessed to ensure they are competent against the skills and knowledge set out in the qualification. The assessor will plan with the individual the best way to evidence against the requirements in the qualification and there are a range of assessment methods which can be used, for example, observation, professional discussion, reflective accounts, questions, work product evidence etc. For some elements, direct observation is required and will involve an assessor visiting the learner at their place of work.

Aims and objectives of the qualification

This qualification has been developed to meet the Early years educator level 3: qualifications criteria (from 1 September 2024) determined by the Department for Education (DfE). The qualification is approved by DfE and has been added as a full and relevant qualification to the Early Years Qualification List.

Progression opportunities

Learners who achieve this qualification could progress within employment working with children from 0 to 5 years in roles such as Early Years Educator, Nursery Nurse, Child Minder, Pre-school Assistant.

With additional experience, an Early Years Educator can become the manager of an early years setting.

Learners could also progress to further study or training such as the Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner Apprenticeship.

Entry guidance

There are no formal entry requirements. The qualification is regulated for learners aged 16 years and older. Learners are expected to be employed in early years roles.